House Opening Remarks Focus on Workforce, Tax Reform

The Iowa House convened at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 8. The new members of the Legislature were sworn in and committees were appointed to notify the Governor and Senate about upcoming joint sessions of the Legislature.

After formal business was conducted, Majority Leader Chris Hagenow (R-Windsor Heights) was recognized for his opening remarks. He focused on budget management, putting dollars back into the pockets of Iowans and training Iowa workers. Speaker Upmeyer also focused on workforce, tax reform that ensures Iowans don’t see a tax increase because of the federal reform, and challenges to health care.

Minority Leader Smith, like the other two leaders, talked about the importance of a skilled workforce. Rep. Smith also talked about mental health, Medicaid, higher education and water quality.

The remarks were absent specific policy proposals, but it’s clear the Republican leadership in the House wants to waste no time getting to work.

Read their remarks:

• Leader Hagenow’s remarks
• Speaker Upmeyer’s remarks
• Minority Leader Smith’s remarks

Read more from opening day:

• Des Moines Register: 2018 Iowa Legislature opens with GOP optimism—and reminders of 2017
• Iowa Public Radio: Republicans, Democrats Spar on Session’s Opening Day
• Associated Press News: Iowa lawmakers return to focus on taxes, privatized Medicaid
• Des Moines Register: 10 issues likely on the agenda in the 2018 Iowa Legislature